Study Shows Too Much Sun Exposure Can Lead to Brain Health Risks
Excessive exposure can have detrimental impacts on well-being, including cognitive health. A study published in Nature found that prolonged exposure to natural sunlight is associated with adverse changes in brain structure. The links were most prominent among males and people under the age of 60.
The brain’s ability to maintain thermal balance aids the circulation of oxygen and nutrients through the blood. When exposed to sunlight, more blood flows away from the brain to manage brain temperature. Less blood going to the brain can result in brain damage. Though more in-depth research is needed to further investigate the relationship between too much sun exposure and brain changes, these current findings are crucial for illuminating how sunlight can affect cognitive abilities.
Sunlight is essential for well-being, but excessive exposure has long been known to cause various health impacts. Parts of the body, like the skin and eyes, are particularly vulnerable to UV damage from the sun’s rays. Being under the sun for too long is linked to issues like dehydration and sunburn, as well as more serious diseases like skin cancer or cataracts.
Similarly, sunlight exposure can prompt the release of serotonin, which helps regulate mood and keeps a person focused. However, the study’s findings showcase its dangers for cognitive functions. More information about its impact on brain health may make more people aware of the importance of balancing sun exposure with sun safety.
How to care for the brain and body
Wear sunglasses
If you will be under the sun for a prolonged period, wearing protective accessories can help combat health issues from UV exposure. Sunglasses are a must for protecting the eyes, as excessive sunlight can lead to problems like macular degeneration, cataracts, pterygium, and cancer around the eye area. A pair with 100% UVA and UVB protection will offer the best protection. For those who need vision correction, prescription sunglasses can be helpful for clear sight and sun safety.
Eyebuydirect’s range of prescription shades can be customized to add polarized lens coatings to block glare or photochromic lenses that change tint depending on the lighting conditions. Large frame styles like the Nevada and Deja Vu can also cover more of the area to protect the delicate skin around the eyes. Caring for yoru sight and ensuring proper correction can even be good for the brain, as uncorrected vision has been linked to dementia.
Stay hydrated
Sun exposure and heat can quickly dehydrate you, affecting all aspects of your well-being, including your brain. Without enough water, your physical condition may weaken, vulnerable parts such as the eyes and skin can become more prone to harm, and cognitive functions like mood, memory, and brain performance can be impaired.
Staying hydrated is a must to beat the heat and keep your body and brain functioning at their best. When outside, take note of places where you can find water, such as water fountains or stores that sell it. You can also bring a reusable water bottle for hydrating on the go. Some bottles can even keep your drinks cold for the whole day, allowing you to stay refreshed and prevent dehydration.
Watch the UV index
Sunlight can vary in intensity, so being aware of the amount of UV radiation to expect throughout the day can help people make smarter decisions about going outside. The UV index is a crucial resource for this reason, as it predicts the UV radiation levels and the risk of damage that can occur. Before making plans or heading outside, you can refer to the UV index to see how dangerous sun exposure may be. Lower and moderate levels are not very dangerous and require some sun protection, while higher levels encourage people to stay in the shade as much as possible and take extra precautions.
Regardless of the UV index level, it’s always best to use and bring along sun safety essentials in case the sun’s intensity changes during the day. Measures like applying sunscreen are ideal whenever you go out. Options like the Sun Advanced Hydration Face SPF 50 from Eucerin can keep your skin safe and hydrated when you’re exposed to the sun.
